Parenting
By Lisa Martinez
Updated: March 18, 2023
Originally Published: March 18, 2023
Photo by Sasa Dinic / iStock
The term “helicopter parent” often comes with a stigma. Many envision overly involved mothers swooping in to manage every aspect of their children’s lives, annoying teachers and free-range parents alike. However, in today’s world, these parents are quite common, and I, for one, proudly embrace this identity. Yes, I am a self-identified helicopter mom, largely because it’s simply how I know to parent.
I believe my helicopter mom tendencies developed gradually as my children transitioned into school. When my oldest started kindergarten, I felt the urge to be involved in every detail of his school day—this was when my super-involved mom instincts kicked into high gear. I experienced a sense of helplessness being separated from him for the first time during those long hours, and that’s when I realized just how deeply I had embraced my role.
Looking back, it’s likely that I’ve always been this way. Anyone who has witnessed my parenting style would hardly describe me as relaxed or hands-off. Since my first child was born, I’ve been there through it all—every milestone, every scrape, every tear. I meticulously document everything, from extensive care instructions for babysitters to detailed notes on daily routines.
I’m omnipresent in my children’s lives. I know all their friends and their parents, their teachers, and even the principal. I volunteer in the PTA, attend every practice, game, and school event. There’s little that happens in their lives that I am not aware of, at least for now. I anticipate that as they grow older, my role as a helicopter mom will require even more effort. But I’m committed to staying informed about their lives.
Do I believe in teaching them to navigate challenges independently? Absolutely. Are they allowed to make their own choices? Of course. What defines me as a helicopter mom is that I stay informed about those choices. Even when I step back to let them shine, I’m always close by, ready to support them if needed.
I understand that helicopter parenting can sometimes be too much, possibly hindering a child’s growth by solving their problems for them. I recognize that I don’t grant my kids much privacy, and if you want to criticize me for reading my son’s diary, go ahead—I still will. At his age, his journal mostly contains musings about Minecraft and school conflicts, things he’s already shared with me.
As they enter their teenage years, will I adapt and respect their privacy? Probably not. I remember being a teenager and feeling unheard, writing my struggles in a diary without anyone noticing. Thankfully, someone did eventually notice and helped me before it was too late. As a mom, it is my responsibility to be attuned to their needs and to step in when necessary. I expect my protective nature to intensify as they grow, because my primary goal is their safety. If that means keeping a close watch from above, then that’s what I’ll do.
If you’re looking for more insights on navigating parenthood, check out this excellent resource on pregnancy and home insemination or learn more about the home insemination process. Additionally, if you’re interested in top-notch tools for self insemination, visit this site for an authoritative guide.
In summary, being a devoted helicopter mom is all about balance. I want my children to grow and learn on their own but also feel secure in knowing I’m right there for them.